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Thailand Travel Destinations to the South

All the way from the south of Bangkok stretching down to Koh Lipe and the Malaysian border, Southern Thailand plays host to some of the country’s biggest tourism attractions.

Whether it be diving the clear blue oceans and stunning coral reefs in Koh Tao, to climbing up a 90 degree cliff at Railay, Krabi, to dancing until the morning sun rises on Koh Phi Phi or just slowly swinging in a hammock listening to the beautiful serenity of the world go by.

But where to go in Thailand?

Well it is safe to say that southern Thailand will not leave you short on choice!

Railay Beach, Krabi Photo by KatieVictoriaHulland

The easiest way so look at southern Thailand is by splitting it climatically into two: The south east – Gulf of Thailand and The south west – Andaman Sea.

You have probably heard of Phuket, Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan, Koh Phi Phi and Koh Tao as they are some of the top highly-visited area’s by tourists!

In recent years, Koh Lipe and Koh Lanta have also become known and visited to by tourists, honeymooners and backpackers due to their low prices, luxury bungalows on the beach and the glorious weather!

When selecting an island or few for your vacation, it pays to do some research and beyond these suggestions there are still plenty of beautiful islands and quirky destinations to choose from.

There are hundreds of Islands in Thailand with Phuket being the largest Island.

Lots of travellers decide to give Phuket a miss due to its higher prices and heavy tourist base especially in Patong but there is much more to Phuket than this!

Karon, Kata and Rawai are must see’s and have so much to offer!

Paradise Beach, Phuket Photo by KatieVictoriaHulland

The mainland has so much to offer before you rush to tropical, white-sand paradise!

The beautiful coast line of Krabi Province, including Ao Nang and Railay which hold some of the most spectacular scenery, secluded beaches and towering limes stone karsts your eyes could see. Krabi is now known as a major rock-climbing destination, so get over you fears and shoot up that cliff for a view like no other!

Ao Nang Beach

Depending on the season (wet or dry) choose your coast wisely! The west coast brings monsoon rain fall and heavy storms from April to October, whilst the east coast brings rainfall between September and December.

So depending on your time of travel you may have to miss the west coast and play it safe and opt for some peaceful time swinging softly in a hammock on the east coast islands!

These include Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Tao. All of which you can get a ferry to within an hour and a half of each other and Koh Samui even has its own international airport so if you aren’t keen on the rocky waves, fly over to this island of pure paradise!

Koh Samui is ever expanding with its shopping malls, mile long white sand beaches and famous Big Buddha.

SeeSea Restaurant View Photo by KatieVictoriaHulland

Koh Pha Ngan is most known for its epic, wild Full Moon Parties that go on from sunset to sunrise!

Full Moon Party Photo by Pinterest

Address: Haad Rin Beach, Koh Pha Ngan, Thailand

Koh Tao is best known to get your Padi Licence! Get your snorkel and dive into the clear blue ocean and explore the vibrant coral reefs!

Photo by Keepcalmandtravel

With so much to do just between these three islands don’t be surprised if you end up doubling the length of your trip!

Back on the mainland a few points of interest: Bang Saphan Yai, Phetburi and Prachuap.

Heading down south: Phattalung and the exquisite Nakhon Si Thammara! 136These are all ideal for heading away from the hustle and bustle of the tourists!

Nakhon Si Thammarat Wat Phra Mahathat Chedi photo by gbtimes

Southern Thailand will keep you occupied from the moment you arrive until the moment you never want to leave!

The islands are all so different and have so much to offer!

From scaling the white rocks, to cooking up a storm at a Thai cookery class, to island hopping on your Kayak, to chilling out with your favourite ice cold cocktail on a rooftop bar, gliding through the coral reefs, or even swinging the day away with a great book in your hammock. There is something for everyone!